I’m Public School Proud

Hurricane Harvey is still properly on everyone’s mind.It will be for a very long time.

And Hurricane Irma is a compelling reminder of our sadness and sympathy for all victims of these tragedies.

There are so many Harvey stories, from heroic to horribly sad. I’m incredibly moved by how Texans have come together to help fellow Texans. As I said recently, I’ve been moved, renewed and reminded how we can all love each other as part of the same family.

The Austin Independent School District made me proud by stepping up and enrolling students who were evacuated from the hard hit areas of Texas.Students living in shelters and students that are staying in Austin were welcomed to local schools. What a wonderful, warm way to tell kids that we’re with them.

Supporting public schools

A lot of school districts are going to need help from the state to get up and running again.And we’re hearing encouraging words from those in control of the Capitol, who are suggesting that they’re committed tosupporting our public schools.

A positive future for Austin ISD

Voters will consider a $1.05 billion bond package on Nov. 7 to modernize or build 16 campuses while updating others to relieve overcrowding and address safety concerns. The improvements will also support new programs for 21st century learning.

And every single one of the tax dollars approved for this bond package will stay right here in the Austin ISD. None of it will be siphoned off by the state to reduce its own obligation to public education.

These are necessary investments for our children and the schools that are preparing them for the future.I ask that you join me and support our public schools by voting for the Austin ISD bond package on Nov. 7.